The Secret Ingredient to Making Bacon *Even Better*

Bacon seems to be the one thing that always makes breakfast better. Who doesn’t love waking up to a slice (or 12) of warm, crispy, savory bacon? We’ll let you in on a secret: The trick to making bacon even better is adding a touch of sweetness and a little funky spice to the mix to create the ultimate umami combo.

It’s been a tradition in my house to wake up on Sunday, preheat the oven, throw on a movie, and whip up my sweet and spicy bacon crack to help ease everyone’s hangovers. In fact, it’s almost a necessity for making sure the weekend ends on the right note. My friends have been obsessing over my candied bacon for years, and I thought it was finally time to share it with the world. There are a lot of components for sure, but once you find that right blend of spices, it’ll make your bacon pure heaven. The essential ingredient I add to my spice mix is pumpkin spice; it just makes everything better.

Nicole’s candied bacon

Recipe from Nicole Iizuka, Brit + Co

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

1 pound thick-cut bacon

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup coconut sugar

2 Tablespoons espresso powder

2 teaspoons pumpkin spice

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon white pepper

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit; line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top of it.

Remove the bacon from the package and lay out evenly on the rack.

In a bowl, combine the spices until incorporated and then sprinkle an even layer on top of the bacon. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes.

Remove from the oven and eat while warm.

If you do make your own batch of candied bacon, be sure to take a photo and tag us on Instagram.

Nicole Iizuka is a writer, producer, and director living in Los Angeles. While she has worked several jobs all over Hollywood, her love of food and travel keeps her constantly cooking up new, strange, exotic, and colorful recipes. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @nicolemiizuka or on www.itsborderlinegenius.com.